If you’re thinking of coming to the Caribbean for a carnival, it’s time to think about Martinique.

The French Caribbean island has a raucous carnival festival at the end of February, but Martinique’s carnival season actually lasts for weeks.

“The February 26 to Match 1st period marks the apex of our Carnival, but the fun actually starts weeks before,” said Muriel Wiltord, Director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau. “Beginning now, in early-January, Carnival queens parades and competitions are held each weekend in towns throughout the island. The fête is infused week after week with a merry madness in the bigger towns and cities, especially Fort-de-France.”

It’s a great way to discover one of the Caribbean’s most culturally fascinating destinations, whether you’re dancing, watching tar-covered dancers or just drinking a ti’ punch cocktail.

And it’s never been easier to get to Martinique, thanks to a host of flights from U.S. cities including New York, Boston, Baltimore-Washington and Miami.

So what are you waiting for?

— CJ